Almond and Pear Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

This recipe yields 6 servings and combines the delicate sweetness of pears with the rich flavor of almonds, all topped with a hint of amaretto liqueur.

Ingredients

• 1 firm pear, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
• cup sliced blanched almonds
• 6 tablespoons white sugar, divided
• cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Grease a small tart pan or a 9-inch cake pan with butter.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the pear slices with the amaretto liqueur. Set aside to marinate for a moment.

Step 3: In a food processor, pulse the sliced almonds with 2 tablespoons of sugar until the mixture forms a fine almond meal.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, cream together cup of sugar and the softened butter using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Gently fold the almond meal, flour, and salt into the creamed butter mixture to form a smooth batter.

Step 6: Drain the pear slices, reserving the amaretto liqueur. Stir the drained liqueur into the batter until just incorporated.

Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface if necessary. Arrange the pear slices in a decorative pattern on top of the batter.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cake begins to pull away from the edges of the pan and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 9: Allow the tart to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Cook's Note

If you opt to use a cake pan, the result will be a thinner, tart-like cake with a delicate texture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 377
• Total Fat: 26g (34% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 11g (55% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 103mg (34% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 80mg (3% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 28g (10% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 19g
• Protein: 7g (14% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 56mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (8% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 194mg (4% Daily Value)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Almond and Pear Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the delicate flavors of ripe pears and ground almonds, creating a moist and flavorful treat. Often enjoyed during the fall season, it is perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings. But what exactly is the story behind this cake? Lets take a deeper look.

History of the Almond and Pear Cake

The roots of the Almond and Pear Cake can be traced to Italian cuisine, where the use of almonds in desserts is a long-standing tradition. Italy has been famous for incorporating nuts into baked goods for centuries, and almonds have been particularly popular in the northern regions, such as Lombardy and Piedmont. The pairing of pears with almonds is also common in Italian desserts, as both fruits grow abundantly in the country.

Though its exact origins are unclear, this cake likely evolved as a variation of traditional almond cakes (like the classic ricciarelli from Tuscany or almond tortes from Piedmont). The addition of pears, often soaked in liqueur like Amaretto, brings an extra layer of flavor, creating a dessert that is both rich and refreshing.

Regional Variations

While the Almond and Pear Cake is widely associated with Italy, it has also been embraced by other European countries, particularly France and Spain. In France, similar cakes are made in the regions of Provence and the Loire Valley, where almonds are frequently used in pastries. The French sometimes incorporate a splash of brandy or pear liqueur, further enhancing the depth of flavor.

In Spain, the combination of almonds and fruit is also common, and cakes like tarta de almendra y pera are popular in Catalonia and the Basque country. In these regions, the cake might be made with a slightly firmer texture, using ground almonds mixed into a more traditional sponge cake base.

What Sets This Cake Apart?

The Almond and Pear Cake stands out due to its light, delicate texture, thanks to the use of finely ground almonds rather than flour as the primary dry ingredient. This substitution gives the cake a rich, nutty flavor and makes it slightly denser, but still light enough to be perfect for afternoon tea.

Unlike many traditional fruit cakes, which can be heavy and overly sweet, this dessert offers a harmonious balance of almond nuttiness and the natural sweetness of pears. The optional use of Amaretto liqueur adds an extra depth of flavor that differentiates this cake from other almond-based cakes that often lean on vanilla or citrus notes.

Where is the Almond and Pear Cake Usually Served?

The Almond and Pear Cake is often served as a dessert for special occasions and holiday gatherings, especially in the autumn and winter months. Its perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quiet afternoon spent with a cup of tea. In Italy, its common to serve it as a light dessert after a hearty meal or even for breakfast with coffee. Its moderate sweetness makes it suitable for pairing with whipped cream, mascarpone, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

In some regions, this cake is also enjoyed as part of a festive spread, such as during Christmas or other family celebrations. Its elegant presentation, with thin slices of pear arranged on top, makes it a visually appealing dessert as well.

Interesting Facts About the Almond and Pear Cake

• The name "Amaretto" comes from the Italian word "amaro," meaning bitter, referring to the almond's slightly bitter taste that is balanced by the sweetness of the pears.
• Almonds have been cultivated since ancient times, with historical evidence of their use in the Mediterranean region dating back to 3000 B.C.
• Pears are believed to have been first domesticated in the region of Central Asia, but their cultivation spread rapidly throughout Europe after the Romans introduced them to the continent.
• This cake is not only delicious but also nutritious, with the almonds providing a source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. It can even be made gluten-free by substituting the flour with almond flour.
• Many variations of the Almond and Pear Cake exist, including versions that incorporate other fruits, such as apples or plums, making it a versatile dessert option.

FAQ about Almond and Pear Cake Recipe

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